I’ve always liked the idea of Lent, spending six weeks giving up something that has an unhealthy presence in your life.

I like the discipline it cultivates and the benefit we get from the challenge. This winter, I feel comfort eating has become a more regular habit than I’m comfortable with, so I’ve decided to take the plunge and try to eliminate sugar.

Sugar is earning a bad reputation as more and more research is done on the effects of refined sugars. We are becoming increasingly aware of the negative impact it can have on our health.

A key reason for keeping sugar off the table is poor blood sugar control. The body needs a steady supply of energy, just like an open fire needs a steady source of fuel. Adding sugar in response to a sugar craving is like adding newspaper to a fire. The energy peaks quickly but dies down rapidly, requiring more fuel and triggering another sugar craving.

We release insulin to deal with these sugar peaks, a hormone that helps maintain safe blood glucose levels. If we constantly subject our blood to these peaks in sugar, we stop responding effectively to insulin.

Fat cells begin gathering between the organs, giving us the rotund middle known as ‘middle aged spread’.

This type of poor blood sugar control predisposes us to diabetes which can lead to all sorts of complications.

To stop this from occurring, provide your body with slow burning fuels like beans, oats and veggies that are high in fibre.

Enjoy lean meats, fish, eggs and nuts to increase your protein.

Regular meals high in fibre and protein should help to curb the cravings, making it easier to drop sugar entirely.

The best way to cut out sugar is to go cold turkey as each cheat will renew the craving cycle.

For people with long term blood sugar irregularities or for those troubled with constant cravings, I recommend using herbs like fenugreek and cinnamon.